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Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism renews Agoda pact

SINGAPORE, 15 May 2025: Agoda has renewed its partnership with Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism to boost international and domestic visits through Agoda’s booking channel.

Agoda’s technology will encourage greater use of digital technologies and innovative approaches within Indonesia’s tourism industry, linked to the Ministry’s tourism 4.0 vision strategy.

Photo credit: Agoda. From left to right: Samuel Hsiao – Senior Manager of Government Affairs at Agoda; Dr Anwari Masatip – Director – NHI Bandung Tourism Polytechnic; Denise Hartono – Associate Director at Agoda; Gede Gunawan – Senior Country Director at Agoda;  Masruroh – Senior Advisor for Digital Transformation and Tourism Innovation;  Dr Andar Danova L Goeltom – Assistant Deputy of Human Resources Capacity Improvement of the Apparatus and Vocational Education; Firnandi Ghufron – Assistant Deputy of Tourism Marketing Strategy and Communication; Rachmadizal Rizal, Strategic Account Manager at Agoda.

The refreshed collaboration outlines joint initiatives scheduled over the next three years, including targeted marketing campaigns, support for sustainable tourism practices and developing digital skills for Indonesia’s young tourism professionals.

The refreshed partnership kicked off with Agoda hosting the first Agoda Academy workshop to provide workshops to the students at Bandung Tourism Polytechnic. The half-day workshop offered students a glimpse into Agoda’s work culture and operational case studies, providing a practical perspective for those interested in acquiring digital tourism skills.

“As a committed partner in Indonesia’s tourism industry, Agoda is dedicated to sharing world-class expertise and insights to nurture the next generation of tourism professionals in Indonesia,” said Agoda. Senior Country Director Gede Gunawan.

“By renewing our collaboration, we’re also excited to support the Ministry’s vision on Tourism 4.0 with Agoda’s expertise in digital solutions. This partnership reinforces our shared commitment to seeing Indonesia thrive as a destination while enabling local communities to benefit from the many opportunities tourism generates around local economies.”

Home to iconic destinations such as Bali, Yogyakarta, and Komodo National Park, Indonesia offers an unparalleled mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and unique experiences. Visitors can explore pristine beaches, trek in lush rainforests, or dive into vibrant underwater ecosystems. Beyond nature, Indonesia’s vibrant art, festivals, and culinary offerings—from traditional markets to fine cuisine — promise enriching, immersive experiences for global travellers seeking unforgettable journeys.

Ministry of Tourism Chief Secretary Bayu Aji expressed enthusiasm for the extended collaboration, saying, “We are delighted to expand our partnership with Agoda, as it not only strengthens Indonesia’s standing as a vibrant and more sustainable tourism destination but will also help equip our workforce in the tourism sector for the future through initiatives such as the Agoda Academy Workshop”

In the previous MOU between Agoda and the Ministry of Tourism, Agoda launched several campaigns co-branded with the Ministry’s “Wonderful Indonesia” initiative and promoted more sustainable tourism practices. 

The initiative included collaborating with influencers such as Anya Geraldine, amplifying tourist destinations, and supporting the Ministry of Tourism’s goals for tourism growth. 

With access to Agoda’s vast network of accommodations, flights, and activities, alongside its expertise in travel technology, the Ministry of Tourism is poised to leverage solutions that help ensure tourism in Indonesia can flourish amidst a rapidly digitising world.

IndiGo leases two more 787-9s

DELHI, 15 MAY 2025: India’s low-cost airline, IndiGo, has expanded its long-haul capabilities by signing another firm agreement with Norse Atlantic Airways for the damp* lease of two additional Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft. 

These additional aircraft, the fifth and sixth in the partnership, are expected to start operations by early 2026, serving long-haul routes out of India.

Photo credit: Norse Atlantic Airways.

This agreement builds upon the existing partnership between IndiGo and Norse Atlantic Airways. Earlier this year, IndiGo signed firm contracts for the damp lease of one Boeing 787-9 aircraft, followed by another firm agreement in quick succession for three more Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft. The total number of wide-body aircraft under this strategic collaboration now stands at six, one of which has already arrived and is operating on IndiGo’s Delhi–Bangkok route since 1 March 2025.

IndiGo CEO Peter Elbers says: “We are pleased to deepen our partnership with Norse Atlantic Airways by signing our third agreement for the additional Boeing 787-9 aircraft. This move reinforces our commitment to international growth, promising to introduce more options on long-haul routes. As we accelerate towards our vision of becoming a global airline by 2030, this partnership enables us to bolster our wide-body operations while staying rooted in our India-first approach.”

During its financial year, from 1 April 2024 to 31 March 2025, IndiGo carried more than 118 million passengers. IndiGo flies domestic and regional short to medium-haul services out of India. To support its long-haul expansion, IndiGo has placed a firm order for 30 Airbus 350-900 wide-body aircraft with an option for an additional 70 aircraft, with deliveries expected to commence in 2027.

The initial term of the lease is six months, extendable up to 18 months, and is subject to regulatory approvals.

*Damp Lease is defined as a wet-leased aircraft that includes a cockpit crew but not cabin attendants —  UK Civil Aviation Authority.

Bangkok Airways targets net-zero flights

BANGKOK, 15 MAY 2025: Bangkok Airways PCL and PTT Oil and Retail Business PCL (OR) have signed a Letter of Intent to use Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) produced domestically for the first time in Thailand.

The sustainable fuel will be used for Bangkok Airways operations to address the sustainability goals of both companies while driving Thailand’s aviation industry toward an environmentally friendly future.

Dechit Chareonwong, Senior Executive Vice President of Operations at Bangkok Airways (left centre) and  Chaipruet Watchareecupt, Vice President of Aviation and Marine Marketing (Brand OR).

The LOI signing ceremony was attended by Dechit Chareonwong, Senior Executive Vice President of Operations at Bangkok Airways, and  Chaipruet Watchareecupt, Vice President of Aviation and Marine Marketing (OR) at Bangkok Airways’ headquarters on Vibhavadi Rangsit Road, Bangkok.

Dechit revealed that this marks another significant step for Bangkok Airways to elevate Thailand’s aviation industry toward a green flight path by using sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), which was produced domestically for the first time in Thailand. 

The airline continues to advance its “Low Carbon Skies by Bangkok Airways” campaign, which aims to reduce carbon emissions across all business operations. This integrated cooperation will promote and prepare biofuels in Thailand’s aviation industry in response to the sustainable trends in Thailand’s aviation business. This aligns with the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.

Thailand has set 2065 as its target for achieving net-zero carbon emissions.

Vietnam Airlines adds routes to India

HANOI, 15 MAY 2025: Vietnam Airlines has launched direct flights from Hanoi to Bengaluru, India’s vibrant tech hub, and Hyderabad, the capital of southern India’s Telangana state.

The airline serves the Hanoi-Bengaluru route four times weekly using an A321 aircraft with 184 seats. Flights are scheduled every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday.

Photo credit Vietnam Airlines.

The Hanoi-Hyderabad route is also served by A321 aircraft flying three times weekly on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. With these two new routes, Vietnam Airlines now connects Vietnam to four major Indian cities — New Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad — operating six direct routes between the two countries from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

Flight schedules

Hanoi-Bengaluru

VN983 departs Hanoi (HAN) at 1830 and arrives in Bengaluru (BLR) at 2200 (Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday).
VN982 departs Bengaluru (BLR) at 2330 and arrives in Hanoi (HAN) at 0525 (plus a day).

Hanoi-Hyderabad

VN985 departs Hanoi (HAN) at 1915 and arrives in Hyderabad (HYD) at 2215 (Wednesday, Friday and Sunday).
VN984 departs Hyderabad (HYD) at 2345 and arrives in Hanoi (HAN) at 0525 (plus a day).

Solar-seeking cruises gain popularity

SINGAPORE, 15 MAY 2025: The growing popularity of solar eclipse cruises has inspired Princess Cruises to add a third voyage in its highly anticipated 2026 Total Solar Eclipse series — a 14-day Mediterranean & Adriatic with Total Solar Eclipse cruise onboard the Enchanted Princess 

Bookings are now open for the roundtrip cruise departing from Rome on 4 August 2026. The journey will blend the magic of a rare celestial event with immersive exploration across Southern Europe’s most iconic coastal cities. 

Photo credit: Princess Cruises. More solar eclipse cruises in 2026.

The new Enchanted Princess sailing joins two other eclipse-focused Princess cruises onboard Sky Princess (8 August, 2026, from Southampton) and Sun Princess (7-, 14- and 21-day itineraries departing from Barcelona and Athens), further cementing the cruise line’s commitment to delivering one-of-a-kind experiences that combine travel and wonder.

With a prime viewing spot off the coast of Eastern Spain, eclipse devotees can marvel at the totality of two minutes and 18 seconds on 12 August, 2026.

Highlights of the Enchanted Princess itinerary, sailing August 4-18, 2026, include: Civitavecchia (Rome); Naples (for Capri & Pompeii); Kotor, Montenegro; Dubrovnik, Croatia; Corfu, Greece; Messina & Palermo, Sicily; Gibraltar; Alicante, Spain; and Barcelona, Spain. 

During the eclipse, guests will gather on the top decks with Princess eclipse viewing glasses, and enjoy lectures from astronomy experts, themed treats and drinks, stargazing at night, solar system trivia and more. Guests are encouraged to set up their own telescopes on deck and wear festive eclipse-themed apparel and accessories.

In 2019, guests onboard the Sapphire Princess viewed the annular solar eclipse early in the afternoon of Boxing Day along the Straits of Malacca whilst on an 11-day voyage around Southeast Asia. Guests and crew were given solar filter glasses to view the phenomenon safely. Hundreds of guests gathered on the ship’s upper deck to witness the solar eclipse.

Cross Hotels signs two hotels in Batam

BATAM, 14 May 2025: Cross Hotels & Resorts has signed two lifestyle hotels in Batam, Indonesia: Cross Batam The Mix and Cross Vibe Batam The Mix. 

Located within The Mix, a landmark 5-in-1 integrated complex in Pasir Putih, Batam Centre, this dual-branded project is being developed by PT MIG Putra Indonesia, a joint venture between PURI Group Indonesia and Rima Properties Group Malaysia.

The project marks Cross Hotels & Resorts’ second venture on Batam, reinforcing the brand’s growing commitment to the island’s transformation into a regional hub for lifestyle, leisure, and MICE tourism.

Catering to a diverse range of guests from Singaporean weekenders and domestic holidaymakers to Gen Z explorers, wellness travellers, and corporate event planners — the hotels offer unmatched convenience, located minutes from the Batam Centre Point International Ferry Terminal and Hang Nadim International Airport.

Cross Batam The Mix and Cross Vibe Batam The Mix promise a seamless blend of comfort, style, and connectivity. 

Cross Hotels & Resorts CEO Harry Thaliwal commented: “This partnership is a proud milestone for our team and underscores the strength of our dual-brand strategy in vibrant destinations like Batam. We are honoured to collaborate with PT MIG Putra Indonesia on this visionary project. With Cross bringing our signature ‘Luxury by Design’ approach and Cross Vibe infusing youthful energy through ‘Stay, Chill, Enjoy’, we are confident that these hotels will redefine the guest experience and accelerate Batam’s evolution as a regional lifestyle and business destination. 

Cross Batam The Mix offers generously sized suites starting from 115 sqm, with sleek living areas and fully-equipped kitchenettes crafted for travellers who appreciate space, comfort, and thoughtful design. Meanwhile, Cross Vibe Batam The Mix, located in the 23-storey Iconic View Tower, promises a design-forward escape for the new generation of travellers.

The hotels are scheduled to open in phases starting in 2027, with full operations anticipated by 2028. Together, they will form the heart of a lively new ecosystem comprising residences, entertainment, retail, and leisure — an urban blueprint for Batam’s future.

Cross Hotels & Resorts operates 30 hotels under six distinct brands – Cross, Cross Vibe, Away, Lumen, Cross Collection, and Kaura – across Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam and Japan.

Emirates Group achieves record profit

DUBAI, UAE, 8 May 2025: The Emirates Group has released its 2024-25 Annual Report, achieving new record profit, EBITDA, revenue, and cash balance levels. This outstanding performance places the Emirates Group as the most profitable aviation group globally in the 2024-25 reporting period, with Emirates reporting the best result in its history to become the world’s most profitable airline.

Both Emirates and dnata contributed record revenues in 2024-25, as the Group expanded its operations worldwide to meet voracious customer demand for its high-quality products and services.

For the financial year ended 31 March 2025, the Emirates Group reported:

  • Record profit before tax of AED 22.7 billion (US$ 6.2 billion), up 18% from last year;
  • record revenue of AED 145.4 billion (US$ 39.6 billion), up 6% over last year’s results;
  • record level of cash assets at AED 53.4 billion (US$ 14.6 billion), up 13% from last year;
  • highest-ever EBITDA of AED 42.2 billion (US$ 11.5 billion), up 6%, demonstrating its strong operating profitability.

Emirates earns its place as the world’s most profitable airline, reporting:

  • Record profit before tax of AED 21.2 billion (US$ 5.8 billion), up 20% from last year;
  • record revenue of AED 127.9 billion (US$ 34.9 billion), an increase of 6% over last year;
  • highest-ever level of cash assets at AED 49.7 billion (US$ 13.5 billion), 16% higher compared to 31 March 2024.  

dnata delivered solid growth and performance across its business units, reporting:

  • Record profit before tax of AED 1.6 billion (US$ 430 million), up 2% from last year;
  • record revenue of AED 21.1 billion (US$ 5.8 billion), up 10%;
  • strong cash assets of AED 3.7 billion (US$ 1.0 billion).

The Group declares a dividend of AED 6.0 billion (US$ 1.6 billion) to its owner, the Investment Corporation of Dubai (ICD). 

This is the first financial year that the UAE corporate tax, enacted in 2023, is applied to the Emirates Group. After accounting for the 9% tax charge, the Group’s profit after taxes AED 20.5 billion (US$ 5.6 billion)

In 2024-25, the Group collectively invested AED 14.0 billion (US$ 3.8 billion) in new aircraft, facilities, equipment, companies, and the latest technologies to support its growth plans.

Emirates performance

Emirates’ total passenger and cargo capacity grew 4% to 60.0 billion ATKMs in 2024-25, recovering to near pre-pandemic levels.

During the year, Emirates launched two new destinations – Bogotá and Madagascar; restarted flights to Phnom Penh, Lagos, Adelaide and Edinburgh; and strengthened services to 21 other destinations to meet rising demand. By 31 March, Emirates served 148 cities in 80 countries and territories. Emirates also grew its partnerships to 33 codeshare and 118 interline partners, providing customers smooth access to over 1,750 cities beyond its network.  

The first Airbus A350 aircraft joined Emirates’ fleet this year, bringing added capacity for the airline to serve customer demand with its latest products, including the popular Premium Economy Class and a new-generation inflight entertainment system. By 31 March, Emirates had 4 A350s in its fleet, flying to Edinburgh, Ahmedabad, Bahrain, Colombo, Kuwait and Mumbai.  

With ongoing delays in new aircraft deliveries, Emirates added 99 more aircraft to its retrofit programme which will now see 219 aircraft go through a full cabin refresh at a total investment of US$ 5.0 billion. On 31 March, Emirates’ order book had 314 aircraft pending delivery, including 61 A350s, 205 Boeing 777x, 35 787s, and 13 777Fs.

At the end of March, the total fleet count was 260 units, with an average fleet age of 10.7 years.

By strategically deploying capacity to serve surging demand across markets, Emirates’ total revenue for the financial year increased 6% to AED 127.9 billion (US$ 34.9 billion). Currency fluctuations and devaluations in some of the airline’s major markets negatively impacted the airline’s profitability by AED 718 million (US$ 196 million).

With the robust appetite for travel across customer segments, the strength of its global network, and strong customer preference for its products, Emirates hit a new record profit after tax of AED 19.1 billion (US$ 5.2 billion), outstripping last year’s AED 17.2 billion (US$ 4.7 billion) result with an exceptional profit margin of 14.9%. This is the best performance in the airline’s history and in the airline industry for the reporting year 2024-25.

Emirates carried 53.7 million passengers (up 3%) in 2024-25, with seat capacity up by 4%. The airline reports a Passenger Seat Factor of 78.9%, a marginal decline from 79.9% last year. Passenger yield remained consistent at 36.6 fils (10.0 US cents) per Revenue Passenger Kilometre (RPKM). 

Centara boosts booking benefits

BANGKOK, 14 MAY 2025: Centara Hotels & Resorts, Thailand’s leading hotel operator, continues to elevate the guest experience with exclusive benefits only available for bookings made via the official website at www.centarahotelsresorts.com.

Guests who book directly can take advantage of Centara’s Best Rate Guarantee — should a lower rate be found elsewhere, Centara will match it and offer an additional 10% discount, ensuring peace of mind and unrivalled value. Direct bookers also enjoy even greater savings with an exclusive 15% discount on regular rates, by logging in or signing up for free to the CentaraThe1 loyalty programme at the time of booking.

These benefits extend throughout the stay with 15% off food and beverages, including alcoholic drinks, and 15% savings on rejuvenating spa treatments, offering meaningful ways to relax and indulge across participating properties worldwide. To further enhance the guest journey, Centara offers the choice of early check-in or late check-out, subject to availability, allowing for added flexibility and comfort while travelling.

“At Centara, our goal has always been to create experiences that feel personal, warm, and meaningful,” said Centara Hotels & Resorts Vice President – Brand, Marketing & Digital, Tom Thrussell.

“By booking directly with us, guests can enjoy not only our best available rates, but also exclusive benefits that reflect our ongoing commitment to service excellence and authentic Thai-inspired hospitality.”

For even more value, CentaraThe1 members not only have access to member-only rates but also the opportunity to earn points, redeemable for complimentary nights, room upgrades, shopping vouchers, and more. Enrolment is free at CentaraThe1.com.

With a growing portfolio of hotels and resorts in breathtaking destinations across Thailand, Asia, the Middle East, and beyond, Centara invites guests to discover The Place to Be. 

To learn more about Direct Booking Benefits, visit www.centarahotelsresorts.com/book-direct-benefits.

ATIA welcomes ministerial appointments

SYDNEY, 14 MAY 2025: The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) says it looks forward to working with Australia’s new Federal Ministry to continue its policy engagement and collaborative efforts across all levels of government to ensure the value of the travel sector and the needs of Australian travellers are clearly understood.

ATIA, in a press statement issued on Monday, congratulated Senator Penny Wong on her reappointment as Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator Don Farrell on his reappointment as Minister for Trade and Tourism, Tony Burke on his return as Minister for Home Affairs, Catherine King on her reappointment as Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Andrew Giles as Minister for Skills and Training, and Andrew Leigh as Assistant Minister for Productivity, Competition, Charities and Treasury.

ATIA also welcomed Matt Thistlewaite as Assistant Minister for Immigration and Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade and Nita Green as Assistant Minister for Tourism.

These appointments are critical for the Australian travel and tourism sector. With a new term of government underway, ATIA is committed to ensuring that the perspectives and priorities of travel businesses are front and centre in policy discussions.

ATIA has established strong and collaborative relationships with all key ministers and looks forward to working closely with them to advance shared goals. These include supporting a fairer and more competitive aviation market, addressing the industry’s pressing workforce needs, and ensuring regulatory settings recognise and promote accredited Australian travel businesses.

ATIA CEO Dean Long commented on ministerial changes: “We welcome the announcement of the Federal Ministry and the opportunity it brings to deepen our engagement with key decision-makers.”

“These Ministers know our industry well, and we are ready to hit the ground running to ensure that the priorities of our members remain front and centre.”

“ATIA exists to deliver outcomes for our members, and we will continue to work tirelessly to make sure the challenges and opportunities facing Australia’s travel sector are understood and acted on at every level of government.”

In 2024 alone, ATIA members booked AUD13.5 Billion TTV of retail bookings, AUD11.8 billion of Corporate Bookings, and AUD5.6 billion of Land Operations. Typically, at least 70% of all international air sales in Australia are through ATIA members, and over 90% of corporate sales (medium and large businesses) are through ATIA members rather than directly through airlines. As for cruises, 73% of travellers use travel advisors to book.

ATIA remains focused on advocating for the needs of all our members, strengthening skills pathways into travel careers, and increasing consumer awareness about the benefits of booking with ATIA-accredited businesses.

The Association will continue its policy engagement and collaborative efforts across all levels of government to ensure a clear understanding of the travel sector’s value and the needs of Australian travellers.

About ATIA (www.atia.travel)
The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) is the peak body representing Australia’s AUD69 billion travel industry. ATIA represents the majority of Australian travel agents, corporate agents, tour operators, wholesalers and ITOs.

Sabre links Skytrans to global marketplace

SINGAPORE, 14 May 2025: Australian airline Skytrans is now distributing its content via Sabre Corporation (NASDAQ: SABR), a leading global travel technology company. 

Under the new agreement, Skytrans fares and offers are accessible through Sabre’s global travel marketplace, enabling travel agents to shop and book Skytrans flights, including new routes.

Skytrans joins Sabre’s network of global travel agencies.

For Skytrans, the deal enables expanded reach and business growth, allowing the airline to distribute fares and ancillary content to Sabre-connected travel agencies and corporate travel buyers in Australia. The collaboration further strengthens Sabre’s position in the Australian marketplace, offering Sabre-connected travel sellers access to more diverse domestic airline options to create personalised offers for travellers.

“Choosing to join Sabre’s global travel marketplace is an important milestone for Skytrans, with the addition of Sydney to Lord Howe flights and growing interest in our other destinations,” said Skytrans Revenue and Network Manager Paul Williams.

Skytrans provides flights between Cairns, Cape York and the Whitsunday Coast. In line with its growth strategy and commitment to meeting traveller demand, the Queensland carrier will soon commence flying from Sydney to Lord Howe Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As part of Avia Solutions Group, the airline has also added new Airbus A319 aircraft to its fleet.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Skytrans to Sabre’s global travel marketplace to help grow their business and enable more travellers to explore the destinations they serve,” said Sabre Travel Solutions Vice President Agency Sales and Airline Distribution, Asia Pacific. Brett Thorstad.

“This agreement underscores our commitment to enabling airlines of all sizes to offer more choice and flexibility to travellers, whether they want to explore major cities or more remote destinations.”